Definition

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are tangles of abnormal blood vessels. They can form wherever arteries and veins exist, and can be found anywhere in the body. AVMs of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) have the most serious symptoms and complications.

Treatment

You may be referred to a specialist who has experience in treating AVMs. Treatment may in a specialized intensive care unit. The goal of treatment is to destroy or remove the AVM, and prevent further bleeding, which can lead to serious complications.

Treatment options vary depending on whether or not the AVM ruptured. A combination of therapies may be used.

Medications

Medications can also be used to treat complications associated with an unruptured AVM. These may include:

Pain relievers

Anticonvulsants to treat seizures

Medications to reduce pressure inside the skull

Medications to control high blood pressure

Medications to control diabetes

Careful use of blood thinners

Surgery

If the AVM ruptured, surgery may be delayed for 2-6 weeks. The type of surgery will depend on the size and location of the AVM. Surgical procedures include:

Microsurgery—An operating microscope is used to surgically remove the AVM through an opening in the skull.

Embolization—A catheter is guided through the artery until it reaches the AVM. A substance is injected through the catheter to plug the fistula. This procedure reduces the blood flow to the AVM. Embolization is more common with AVMs that are deeper in the brain.

Radiosurgery—A beam of radiation is focused on the AVM. The radiation destroys the walls of the blood vessels that lead to an AVM. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) delivers radiation in a very precise location. It allows for delivery of a higher dose of radiation.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent AVMs because the cause is unknown. If AVMs run in your family, talk to your doctor about your options.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

What is an arteriovenous malformation (AVM)? American Stroke Association website. Available at: http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/AboutStroke/TypesofStroke/HemorrhagicBleeds/What-Is-an-Arteriovenous-Malformation-AVM%5FUCM%5F310099%5FArticle.jsp#.WE7w2k2QwdU. Updated November 21, 2016. Accessed December 12, 2016.